It is commonly known as eastern poison ivy or poison ivy, is a poisonous Asian and Eastern North American flowering plant that is well-known for causing urushiol-induced contact dermatitis, an itchy, irritating, and sometimes painful rash, in most people who touch it. Immediate washing with soap and cold water or rubbing alcohol may help prevent a reaction. Hot water should not be used, as it causes one's pores to open up and admit the oils from the plant. During a reaction, Calamine lotion or diphenhydramine may help mitigate symptoms. Corticosteroids, either applied to the skin or taken by mouth, may be appropriate in extreme cases. An astringent containing aluminum acetate may also provide relief and soothe the uncomfortable symptoms of the rash. By using a detergent, the urushiol can be emulsified to break it down so that it can be washed away more easily. Adding sand or a gritty substance to the detergent will exfoliate the skin, taking the emulsified oil with it. Mixing the abrasive with a dishwashing liquid, and rubbing it briskly over the affected areas for several minutes, will mix the urushiol into the detergent, allowing it to be flushed away.
